The Azores archipelago is part of an underwater ridge that divides the Atlantic into two parts: western and eastern. The islands, like the ridge itself, are of volcanic origin. The exception is Santa Maria Island, composed of limestones. Like all areas of the planet with pronounced tectonic activity, the Azores are characterized by a surprisingly variegated and complex relief. The coastline of the archipelago is severely indented due to the abundance of bays, capes, small islands, bays and coves. The shores are washed by azure ocean water, and in the heart of each island there are many waterfalls and rivers, lakes sparkling in volcanic craters, colorful subtropical vegetation and rich wildlife.
Due to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, the ocean in this area warms up in the summer to 22-23 degrees, and in general the climate on the archipelago is quite mild. Therefore, the Azores attract tourists not only from Portugal, to which they belong administratively, but also from other European countries. However, there is no developed recreational infrastructure on the archipelago, so it is mainly visited by sophisticated travelers who have seen the world and made a choice in favor of wildlife and solitude. Lovers of surfing, wind and kitesurfing, diving, yachting and other sea sports come here.
The Azores are also attractive for lovers of land activities. On the island of Faial, you can see a village destroyed by lava and a fishing port, climb a volcano and go down to the caldera along a path laid along its circumference. Inside the caldera is an amazing world with small craters, and above are milky white clouds, pleasantly refreshing after rising.
There are volcanic forms on the island of Terceira, and quiet mountain lakes, and karst caves with beautiful flowing forms. The hilly land, remote from the coast, is dotted with numerous trails - this is an area of hiking and cycling.
The Azores are famous for being the highest point of Portugal. This is Piku volcano, located on the island of the same name and reaching 2351 meters. The inhabitants of this land have for many years turned barren rocky slopes covered with eruption products into blooming gardens and fertile vineyards. Among the artificial stone labyrinths, vines grow under the subtropical sun and ripe juicy berries, from which later they create delicious wines, including the famous “Verdel”. Off the coast of Pico, boat trips are held during which you can meet sperm whales and other whales.
Mysterious grottoes and picturesque waterfalls are worth seeing on Flores Island , and on the island of San Miguel - marvelous lakes in ancient craters and a valley of geysers, where you can try food cooked in the heat of the volcano. Terra Nostra Park is also beautiful, glorifying San Miguel and the Azores in general. This is a quiet place with cascades of lakes where white swans live, with romantic winding paths, variegated southern flowers and shady alleys of centuries-old trees.
Due to the high humidity in the Azores, very rich vegetation that gradually covers even the once lifeless volcanic rocks. The visiting card of the archipelago is hydrangea - a beautifully flowering shrub that sometimes forms very dense thickets, which makes the mountain slopes turn purple-blue.
But the Azores are interesting not only because of their marvelous landscapes. There are ancient churches, distinctive fishing and mountain villages, picturesque ports, cozy restaurants, and vibrant holidays are held in the settlements. In addition, the westernmost point of Europe (Flores Island) is also the Azores.
Reviews of most tourists who visited the archipelago are full of enthusiasm. And it is not surprising, because on these pieces of land scattered across the ocean many wonders are collected, in addition, here you can really feel the charm and power of wildlife.
For tourists who want to visit the Azores, Portugal organizes air travel. From Lisbon you can get to any island; There is air service inside the archipelago.